Join us for a look at today’s independent living activities at Crane’s Mill Retirement Community in West Caldwell, New Jersey

Many people wonder what it’s like to live at Crane’s Mill. Sure, there are beautiful apartments and cottages, friendly staff and common areas on-par with fine hotels. But what do people do all day? Never fear, the Crane’s Mill Courier has the answer.

Every day, there are many activities, events and jaunts to nearby locations on the calendar. The beauty of Crane’s Mill is that we keep our calendar filled to the brim—and our residents have the choice to do as much or as little as they wish.

Here is a closer look at today’s calendar of activities:7:00 to 9:30 a.m.-Breakfast at the Heartwood Cafe. Sit down for an omelet or a stack of pancakes, or grab a yogurt, bagel and fruit on your way out the door.9:15 a.m.-Stretch Class. We bring the exercise classes right to YOU! Located in Hinman Hall, you don’t even need to venture outside to have a fitness professional help you stay fit as a fiddle. Classes rotate and are offered every day.10:00 a.m.-Needeworks. Join a group of needlework enthusiasts in Sycamore 2 for this fun and relaxing pastime. All skill levels are welcome!10:00 a.m.-Lap Swim. Our indoor pool is always the perfect temperature. Low impact exercise with high aerobic rewards.11:30 to 1:30 p.m.-Lunch at the Heartwood Cafe. Made-to-order sandwiches, grilled chicken, hot entrees, pizza, and more! Plus a salad bar like you would find at your favorite restaurant, ice cream and freshly baked desserts.2:30 p.m.-Summertime Social. Residents and staff join together for a multi-generational celebration of summer! Music, cool treats and fun.3:30 p.m.-Catholic Mass. Every Thursday, we host a full Catholic Mass right on campus. (We also host Shabbat services and a multi-denominational Sunday service each week)4:30 p.m.-Happy Hour. Prior to dinner, stop in the Cherry Blossom Lounge for your favorite finger foods. Bring your own wine and spirits, we’ll provide the glasses, ice and mixers.5:00 to 7:00 p.m.-Dinner at the Candleberry Dining Room, 4 Five 9 or the Heartwood Cafe. Our flexible meal plan affords our residents an array of dining options. Formal dining with full wait staff, upscale cuisine or a casual fare—the choice is yours!7:30 p.m.-Gordon James: History of Jazz. Music expert and recording artist Gordon James visits Crane’s Mill to take residents on a musical exploration of jazz music.

That certainly is a full day of fun—and that’s just an average Thursday! :)

Here’s a sneak peek at the new tapas menu at Crane’s Mill retirement community!

Our "Tapas" menu provides our guests with an array of delicious little bites while they learn the ins and outs of Crane's Mill.

One of our favorite Crane’s Mill events is called “Tapas Taste & Talk.” Held in the 4 Five 9 dining area, guests are treated to a detailed look at Crane’s Mill, including apartments, cottages, services, amenities, contracts, pricing and more!

As they learn about the community, guests enjoy waiter service with a number of small bites, or “tapas,” brought right to their plate. We spoke with our Executive Chef for a preview of tomorrow’s menu. Here it is, one day early, exclusively for Crane’s Mill Courier readers.

With the below worksheet, many find that it’s more affordable than they think to live at Northern New Jersey’s Premier Retirement Community.

So, just how much does it cost to live at Crane’s Mill? With so many different apartments and cottages, and multiple contract options, that answer is best answered in-person when a Lifestyle Counselor can customize a plan to meet your personal needs.

However, you can get a very good idea of the costs at Crane’s Mill versus staying in your current house by looking at the Value Comparison Worksheet below. It may help you to better understand the cost of living in your house and how you can simplify your bills, and perhaps even save money each month, by moving to Crane’s Mill.

Crane’s Mill residents are always looking for fun new places to go and things to do. This summer, a jaunt to Vermont is on order.

Crane's Mill on the move—Vermont, here we come!

There’s nothing like a vacation with close friends and family. Even for Crane’s Mill residents, who truly “have it all” at their home, it’s nice to get away for a few days and make new memories with the ones they love.

This month, adventurous Crane’s Mill residents are spending some time in Vermont. The tour, coordinated by our Activities Director, spans 4 days and 3 nights, and includes luxury transportation, exquisite accommodations and fabulous meals.

Here is a look at just some of the fun stops on the trip. We have included links to each so you can find out more about any that interest you:

We hope you can come on our next trip away! We usually plan at least 2 per year. As a Crane’s Mill resident, of course you’re invited and encouraged to attend. Find out more about how you can become a resident by calling us at 973-276-3001 or click here to send us an email to request more information. We look forward to hearing from you!